What is a French Bar?
This may seem like a strange question, and yet it's very hard to find French bars that resemble their Anglophone (from English-speaking cultures) counterparts. This is because it's rare for the French to drink without tying it in to another activity, like eating or live entertainment. Most French bars are located inside bistros, brasseries, cafés, restaurants, clubs, theatres, etc., and are therefore not really 'just a bar'. The closest thing to a traditional French corner bar is the little, nondescript bar/café, full of old French men from the neighborhood. They're usually smoking Gitanes and drinking Pastis or a half (pint) of lager around a zinc bar. And there's usually one Turkish toilet in the back. These places are generally not filled with women, tourists, or even anyone from outside the neighborhood. And they are disappearing fast. If your French is good and you're willing to put in an effort despite the probability of being snubbed, then this is your place. You'll find them all over the place, usually named after the street they're on, often looking like they're closed.
If you're looking for a bit of ambiance, the influence of the younger generations and foreign cultures has resulted in an unbelievable number of new bars, each trying to be the latest thing and attract the hippest crowds. Here are just a few types of Parisian bars to give you an idea of what's available. They are all places I've frequented to some extent, so it's not exactly an unbiased report, but I don't want to recommend anywhere I haven't been. I'm sure every expat has their own list completely different from mine. Check out these General Entertainment links for complete bar listings and reviews.
Relaxed Bars When I just want to go somewhere without worrying about how I'm dressed, where the bar staff are friendly, and where I can have a quiet drink with friends or with a book, I want a casual, low-stress bar. L'Imprevu (8, rue Quincampoix, next to the Pompidou Center) has been a favorite of mine ever since it opened back in 1996. The décor is eclectic, with flea market finds arranged in tiny nooks. The Morroccan Room in the back is the best place to go if you're looking for a dark, romantic corner. The staff may resemble refugees from the Gai Marais, but the clientele are mostly artsy characters and students. You can chat with people at the bar or bury your head in a newspaper here for five hours. No food, just clever cocktails and the best espresso I've ever had in Paris.
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